Tag: J.G. Ballard

So what gives? Why are we only getting around to reading this book now?

The story of a man trapped on a traffic island between speeding expressways and overpasses after his wrecked car lands just beyond rescue? Fantastic. Elements of Treasure Island, Alas Babylon, and even My Side of the Mountain all combine to make this an engaging little gem of a book. Deceptively simple with a linear story, it’s complexity develops over time if you have the patience to break without reading through in one sitting.

It’s a fast read that begs for a theatrical version. Why there hasn’t been already, we don’t know, but recent word is that one is in the works with Christian Bale securing the rights and leading the effort.

We can’t wait to see it and remain disappointed teachers weren’t forcing this upon us in our teenage years. But, better late than never.